If you are a software developer or aspirant software developer, these are the Top 5 Common Mistakes in Custom Software Development.
Opting for off-the-shelf software development solutions may seem convenient, but most often it is not ideal for your business as it doesn’t exceed all your business requirements. In such a scenario, choosing a custom software development solution is the best decision as it is tailored to meet all your business requirements and long-term objectives.
However, developing custom software involves careful planning, integration, and deployment to avoid common mistakes. Poor project roadmap, inadequate testing, and lack of momentum are the mistakes that should be avoided proactively to ensure a smoother development process while achieving desirable outcomes.
Top 5 Common Mistakes in Custom Software Development
Mistake #1
Poor Planning:
One of the biggest reasons behind a project’s failure is poor planning. The team of project managers, developers, and testers create a project roadmap without having a clear understanding of the business objectives, the required features, and the level of customization. Also, they may not be experienced enough to integrate the latest features into the existing tech stack. This may lead to missed deadlines and sometimes the costs go up.
The Solution:
The custom software development team must conduct a deep dive into the overall development process as well as the short-term and long-term business goals. Furthermore, focus on the unique requirements and specifications associated with integrations, UX/UI design, customer journey mapping, accessibility, software architecture, security and even hosting. Everything should be planned ahead to avoid this common mistake.
Mistake #2
Cost Overruns:
It is common to see the software project completed in the over cost. Well, many factors affect the budget of a custom software development project. It is not possible even for a reputed software development company to provide an accurate estimate in the very beginning. But nailing down the “Must Have” software requirements can make it easier to create a realistic budget.
The Solution:
Determining MVP (Minimal Viable Product) is one of the effective ways to avoid cost overruns in custom software development projects. MVP creates a baseline starting point which is vital for establishing a budget. Phasing the entire project and considering the “must haves” out of the “could haves” is also an important step to tackle the cost issues. Also, don’t skip the licensing costs as it also impacts the overall project budget.
Mistake #3
Neglecting Testing:
Due to deadlines or to maintain the budget, clients often skip the testing or QA process. But when any bugs are discovered after the launch of a software product, it becomes more challenging as well as costly to resolve. Neglecting the separate testing or shortening the QA process and UAT (User acceptance testing) can have substantial risks that lead to negative outcomes for the business, users, and after.
The Solution:
Software testing is not as easy as it seems. It requires proven knowledge, experience, and specialized skills to ensure that the software is ready for a successful launch. Leaving it for any inexperienced teaser or in-house developer can affect an overall project. Choose a reputed software development company that prioritizes UAT and QA to deliver the top-quality software products that the user demands while protecting the business from any potential risks.
Mistake #4
Improper Communication:
Open, ongoing communication is highly important throughout the custom software development cycle. It ensures that everybody i.e. stakeholders, developers, project manager, and testers are on the same page. Without incorporating clear and open communication between the client and the entire software development team, there is a chance of inefficiencies, misunderstandings, redundancies, and sometimes, missed deadlines.
The Solution:
Choose a software development company that follows a collaborative approach to custom software development. This involves status updates, regular check-ins, and team meetings. It is necessary to ensure that communication channels are open so that the team can be aware of the amendments to schedules, functionality, and budget while working together.
Mistake #5
Scope Creep:
There is a vast scope in every custom software development project and virtually everything can be achieved in the digital domain, which can be a matter of concern sometimes. As the project starts, it is common to want to add or modify the software product functionalities. If the team is not aware of the “one little thing more”, it becomes scope creep due to expanded functions and features.
The Solution:
To avoid scope creep, it is important to have defined goals, a proper project roadmap, open communication, and a clear plan. Focusing on the essentials and MVP can also mitigate the timeline and cost overruns. Once your MVP is put into development, gather details about user feedback and satisfaction to make necessary improvements, and upgrades.
To Wrap Up
In the end, choosing a good custom software development company that follows agile methodology and best practices is quite helpful in avoiding these mistakes. An experienced team of custom software developers will understand your business, software product requirements, and targeted users. And that is the reason, they will provide you with suitable solutions with realistic timelines and budgets. Along with this, they will provide post-launch support and maintenance to help you realize the final success.